Neighbourhood & District Guides in Hong Kong

NEIGHBOURHOODS
By: HABITAT
10 Feb 2023

Hong Kong is home to many districts, but which neighbourhood is the best to live in for you?

Find out all you need to know in our comprehensive guide.

A global and economic powerhouse steeped in rich, ancient culture and traditions, Hong Kong is home to a diverse array of neighbourhoods, each with it's own unique character. From the picturesque Southside with the best of lifestyle offerings from excellent hiking trails and superb seaviews, the towering skyscrapers and fast-paced lifestyle of Central, to the tranquil seaside districts of Sai Kung and Clearwater Bay, there is a place for everyone that evokes the old adage 'there's no place like home'.

Hong Kong Island The Southside

Hong Kong Island Central

Sai Kung & Clear Water Bay

 

Hong Kong Island The Southside

 

Stanley

A picturesque waterfront community situated on the southern side of Hong Kong Island, Stanley evokes a sense of peace, tranquillity and serenity. The neighbourhood has always appealed to those seeking an outdoor lifestyle, as well as those wanting a break from the frenetic city, as it is situated close to the beach and numerous hiking trails.

Expats have long been drawn here due to it's more relaxed atmosphere, close proximity to the business hub of Central and the many schools in the vicinity, including International Montessori School (IMS) and St Stephen's College. Homes with gardens and pools, townhouses and lower-rise apartments can be found throughout the district. Given Stanley is just a stone's throw away from the city centre, it's clear to see why it is one of the best neighbourhoods in Hong Kong for those looking for their own little slice of paradise.

Repulse Bay

Repulse Bay is a stunning seaside location on the southern coast of Hong Kong Island. The neighbourhood is known for its beautiful beaches and gorgeous apartments offering a peaceful escape from the bustling city. The area is surrounded by stunning ocean views and lush greenery, providing residents with a serene and pleasant living environment. Well-connected to the rest of Hong Kong, making it an exclusive community and easy for residents to access other parts of the city. The top-notch dining options, high-end shopping centre The Pulse, and world-class health and fitness facilities allow residents to enjoy an exceptional quality of life.

Redhill/Tai Tam

Just minutes north of Stanley, Redhill/Tai Tam is a quiet, affluent coastal district with cliff-top vistas, pastel-coloured townhouses and some iconic high rise apartments. With the American based Hong Kong International School (HKIS) nearby, the neighbourhood is a favourite for expats.

Houses in Redhill offer a unique blend of traditional charm and modern conveniences, making them an attractive option for those seeking a comfortable and well-appointed home in a family-friendly neighbourhood. Houses with spacious layouts, multiple bedrooms and large living areas are well established. Large private gardens or rooftops provide residents with plenty of outdoor space for gardening, entertaining, or simply relaxing. Key developments include Redhill Peninsula Houses and Towers, Le Palais and Redhill Park.

Tai Tam overlooks glorious Tai Tam Bay, with the iconic Manhattan and Pacific View high rise developments right near The American Club. Will a full suite of Club facilities in each, as well as Apartments and Duplexes, they continue to be most sought after.

 

Hong Kong Island Central

 

The Peak

With breathtaking views of Victoria Harbour and the city skyline, The Peak provides an escape from the hustle and bustle of downtown, offering a serene and peaceful living environment. The neighborhood is home to some of Hong Kong's most prestigious real estate, including grand historic mansions and modern high-rise apartment buildings, and is known for its deluxe shopping, dining, and entertainment options. Living in The Peak offers residents the chance to experience a grand and elevated lifestyle amidst the stunning natural beauty of Hong Kong. Whether you're looking for a comfortable home with breathtaking views, or a peaceful escape from the city, The Peak offers a truly unique and unforgettable living experience.

Mid-levels

One of Hong Kong’s most affluent neighbourhoods, Mid-Levels – or mid mountain area in Chinese – truly reflects its namesake. Perched at the base of The Peak overlooking Central, Mid-Levels offers breathtaking views and convenience. Housing options are diverse, the district offers a range of high-rise apartment buildings with Victoria Harbour views and historic colonial-era walk-up buildings, making it an attractive option for families, professionals, and expatriates. Situated in a prime location, it has easy access to the shopping centres, cafes and restaurants of Central and SoHo

 

Sai Ying Pun

Just a couple of kilometres west of Central in the Western District lies the up-and-coming Sai Ying Pun. A former British military camp, this neighbourhood is now a vibrant hub with a laidback, easygoing feel. A cultural melting pot, Sai Ying Pun is well-loved for its art galleries, hipster cafes, alternative food scene, and relaxed shopping experiences. Apartment options range from traditional walk-up buildings to modern high-rise apartments, providing residents with a range of choices to suit their lifestyle and budget. The region has a strong sense of community, with local shops, hipster cafes, and art galleries adding to the neighborhood's character and charm. 

Kennedy Town

An up-and-coming urban oasis that has undergone a major facelift over the past few years, Kennedy Town has become a hit with both locals and expats. Situated approximately 10 minutes away from Central by MTR, this burgeoning Hong Kong district is renowned for its diverse culinary options, boutique shops, public facilities like the Kennedy Town Public Swimming Pool, and sleek waterfront area. Contemporary buildings with gyms and swimming pools are becoming the new normal in this neighbourhood, which has opened the door to an influx of people moving here as the rents are much more affordable in comparison to some of Hong Kong Island's other prestigious districts. With plenty of well-known schools in the area and convenient transportation options offering direct links to Hong Kong’s major districts, young families and working professionals are flocking to Kennedy Town as it offers the perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of its neighbouring areas.

 

Sai Kung & Clear Water Bay

 

Sai Kung

Ranked 9th among the coolest neighbourhoods in the entire world, Sai Kung clearly has its charms, especially for those looking to escape all the hustle and bustle Hong Kong is known for. Situated right by the seaside, the district is like a small city within itself as it has a plethora of supermarkets, shopping centres, bars and restaurants, all of which are within touching distance of the village houses, villa complexes and waterfront properties found throughout the district. Add in the white sand beaches, picnic spots, hiking trails and Sai Kung Country Park, and you can clearly see the appeal of Sai Kung and why it's such a sought-after destination by both locals and expats.

Clear Water Bay

Similar to Sai Kung, this slice of heaven offers a tranquil getaway from the hub of city life and bright lights. Located near the sea, it's become the ideal place for expats in particular and those who long for peace and solitude but want the convenience of having access to a wide range of amenities, including supermarkets, restaurants, bars and schools. While people living here are recommended to have a car of their own, the MTR is situated close enough to access other parts of the city, and there are plenty of buses and minibuses available that offer further access to various destinations all over Hong Kong.

 

Find your dream home with Habitat Property

Hong Kong is awash with pulsating neighbourhoods and more reposeful districts, so finding the best one depends on specific wants and needs. Habitat Property provides an all-encompassing service that enables people to buy and rent properties that they can ultimately transform into their dream homes.

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